Collection: All Hobby Tools & Accessories

To safely remove a miniature from its sprue, use a pair of plastic sprue cutters. Position the flat side of the cutter as close to the model as possible, and apply a gentle but firm squeeze. It is advisable to leave a small amount of the sprue attached to the model, which you can remove later using a hobby knife or file, to avoid damaging the model itself.

A hobby knife, often referred to as an X-Acto knife, is a critical tool in miniature building. It's used for cleaning mold lines off of miniatures, removing excess plastic left from the sprue, and for precision cuts when modifying your models. When using a hobby knife, always cut away from yourself and keep your fingers clear of the blade's path. Remember, safety first!

Files and fine-grit sandpaper are used to smooth down rough edges, remove mold lines, and clean up areas where sprue was connected to the model. They help provide a clean, smooth surface for primer and paint to adhere to, which improves the overall appearance of your finished miniature.

Choosing the right brush for painting miniatures comes down to what feels good in your hand and matches how you like to paint. You have options: synthetic brushes or the fancier sable ones, and they all come in different sizes and brands. Try a few out. See which ones you like. Other wargamers might suggest their favorites, the best brush for you is the one that just feels right when you're using it to bring your miniatures to life.

A great tool from your miniature hobby supplies is a holder or a handle. This tool lets you grip your miniature securely without touching it. Holding your model this way keeps your hands free to paint and helps avoid smudging the paint. You can also stick your model on a temporary base like an old paint bottle or a cork to hold it steady.

When painting miniatures, seeing every small detail is crucial. A lamp that lets you control light intensity helps a lot. It makes sure you can paint tiny spots without missing anything. Some lamps also let you change how warm or cool the light is, so you can work in comfort and see colors true to life. Good lighting means you won’t overlook any part of your miniature, making your painting more precise and enjoyable.

Adding a vortex mixer to your miniature hobby supplies kit is great for mixing miniature paints. Over time, the color and liquid in paint can separate. A quick spin in a vortex mixer combines everything anew, making the paint smooth and ready for a perfect application. Streamline your painting process and achieve better results with this tool.

The base size affects the miniature's stability and aesthetic, as well as gameplay mechanics for tabletop games. Consider the scale of your miniature and the game's base size requirements. Larger bases offer more room for decorative elements but may not be compatible with all game rules. Consider options like 40mm round-lipped bases to ensure you find the best fit for your miniatures.